CHELSEA boss Antonio Conte has backed Tottenham to mount a Premier League title challenge this season, while also reserving praise for Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola.

The Italian chief, 47, was speaking ahead of the Blues' trip to the Etihad Stadium to take on Pep Guardiola's Manchester City.

Reuters

Antonio Conte has had his say on Man CIty chief Pep Guardiola and Tottenham

But he kicked off his press conference by claiming Tottenham will be a genuine title contender this season, after his Chelsea side came from behind to beat Mauricio Pochettino's Spurs 2-1 last weekend.

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Conte said: "I think we played a really strong team against Tottenham and I think they can fight until the end for the title.

"This week we studied a lot our first half [against Spurs]. I think I showed the situation to improve in the future."

PA:Press Association

Chelsea had to fight hard to come back and beat Tottenham last week

Ahead of the first game of the Premier League weekend - as Chelsea take on Guardiola's Manchester City at 12.30pm - Conte claimed he is expecting a real battle.

He said: "I think tomorrow is a really tough game. A great test for us, our formation, to continue this way. It wont't be easy.

"I've never faced Pep. I have great respect for him because Pep likes to study football and find a solution, idea.

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Antonio Conte had kind words for Tottenham, saying they are a title threat